MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) – Johnson Controls is celebrating the new year by continuing its mission of giving back to the community.

"We focus our philanthropy on creating communities that are safe, smart, and sustainable," said Grady Crosby, VP of Public Affairs at Johnson Controls.

This year, Johnson Controls is donating nearly $8 million to organizations in the Milwaukee area.

Those include the Milwaukee County Zoo, Children's Hospital, Marquette University, and Discovery World.

Some of that money also funds field trips for student sin underprivileged areas. Johnson Controls says this year it is staying committed to supporting organizations that improve Milwaukee's neighborhoods.